Methodological Approach Research Articles

Development of a hybrid Karst Aquifer Vulnerability map by using geospatial and statistical tools. The case study of Ziria aquifer in Northern Peloponnese

Aquifer vulnerability assessment constitutes a crucial tool for the protection and sustainable management of groundwater resources, particularly in complex karst aquifers. This study conducted a detailed comparative analysis of two tailored and widely used vulnerability mapping methodologies, COP and PaPRIKa, to evaluate their performance within a Mediterranean karst groundwater system. The methods were employed for the development of a hybrid vulnerability map after geospatial and statistical analysis. Both COP and PaPRIKa were applied using a combination of geological, hydrological, and geomorphological aquifer characteristics that can potentially influence its vulnerability to contamination. While COP predominantly assigned Low and Very Low vulnerability values across the study area, PaPRIKa identified the Moderate class as dominant, suggesting a finer sensitivity to karst-specific features. To address potential biases in PaPRIKa, a single-parameter sensitivity analysis was performed, leading to adjusted weights and the development of a modified version, PaPRIKa-Mod. A quantitative comparison of all three methods highlighted the varying degrees of consensus and discord, with PaPRIKa and its modification showing the highest consistency, suggesting robust methodological integrity. Conversely, the comparison of COP with either version of PaPRIKa revealed a lesser yet notable concordance, underscoring their capacity to be integrated and their potential to complement each other in vulnerability assessments. Finally, a hybrid vulnerability map was developed from the integration of similar vulnerability classes, attributing the most vulnerable setting prevailing across all methods. The methodological approach that was followed is adaptable and can provide significant insights for vulnerability estimations across different regions and methodological concepts.

A Fermatean Fuzzy SWARA-TOPSIS Methodology based on SCOR model for Autonomous Vehicle Parking Lot Selection

Population growth in crowded cities and the resulting increase in vehicle use have led to the problem of insufficient parking. When public parking lots and urban growth are not in coordination, vehicles park on the street and close the crosswalks. In the coming years, this problem will become more complicated with the addition of autonomous vehicles (AVs) to urban traffic. This study addresses the research question of how to effectively select AV parking lots in urban areas experiencing population growth and increased vehicle usage. For this aim, a hybrid Multi-Criteria Decision Making (MCDM) methodology, combining SWARA (Step-wise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis) and TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity) approaches in a Fermatean Fuzzy (FF) environment is proposed. The decision hierarchy based on the SCOR model has been developed to determine and construct the evaluation criteria. Then, a case study analysis has been applied to selected districts in Istanbul, which is Turkiye's most populous and developing city. Operating expenses, safety and security, and land costs are determined as the most important factors. As a result of the detailed fuzzy analysis, which districts should primarily be chosen for AV parking lots in Istanbul is determined and finally, the robustness and validity of the results obtained by the sensitivity analysis being questioned. The study contributes by providing insights into AV parking lot selection, demonstrating the efficacy of the proposed methodology, and highlighting the importance of addressing this issue in urban planning.

Enhancing Methodological Approaches for Studying Health Effects of High-Concentration THC Products.

For public health protection, informed decision-making relies on having a robust foundation of evidence concerning risks and their prevention. Application of an evidence-based framework depends on the availability of pertinent, scientifically sound data generated by well-directed and valid research endeavors. In this essay, we address the current state of research in humans and the evidential base concerning high-concentration delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (delta-9-THC) products, which are readily available in the United States. Furthermore, we explore the intricate challenges faced in carrying out research on these products, which reflect the full range of study design issues: measurement of exposure and outcomes, confounding, selection bias, and the generalizability of findings. We offer recommendations to guide future research toward providing more informative evidence. By following these recommendations, researchers and funders on this emerging topic could move toward generating the valid and comprehensive evidence needed to effectively inform public health initiatives and guide policy decisions regarding high-concentration delta-9-THC products and their use. The urgency of generating such evidence cannot be overstated, given the widespread legalization and increasing availability and use of these products. (Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S8):S639-S644. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307724).

Digital narratives and historical representation: A review - analyzing how digital mediums are revolutionizing the way history is taught and perceived

This study critically examines the transformative impact of digital narratives on historical representation, focusing on how digital mediums have revolutionized the way history is taught, perceived, and interacted with. Employing a systematic literature review and content analysis methodology, the research analyzes data from peer-reviewed articles, books, and digital platforms published between 2013 and 2023. The study's objectives include exploring the emergence and evolution of digital narratives in historical education, assessing their methodological approaches, and evaluating their educational, cultural, and technological impacts. Key findings reveal that digital narratives have significantly altered historical representation, introducing interactive storytelling techniques, democratizing historical knowledge, and integrating advanced technologies like AI and VR in historical education. These narratives have enhanced accessibility and engagement but also presented challenges such as the digital divide, the need for standardization, and potential biases in historical interpretation. The study concludes that the future landscape of historical representation in the digital age is poised to balance traditional and digital methodologies, emphasizing inclusivity and technological innovation. Recommendations are provided for educators, policy makers, and technologists to collaboratively create an accessible, accurate, and engaging digital historical landscape. Future research directions include investigating the long-term impacts of digital narratives on historical understanding, developing pedagogical strategies for digital history education, and exploring ethical considerations in digital historical representation. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamic role of digital narratives in shaping historical knowledge and education in the digital era.

Motivation for Physical Activity in Low-Income Adults: An Integrative Literature Review.

To explore, review and assess the literature on motivation for physical activity in low-income adults to inform future research and clinical interventions. An integrative review of the literature on motivation for physical activity in low-income adults. Whittemore and Knaul's five-stage methodological approach for integrative reviews was utilised. Studies written in English that focused primarily on low-income adults discussed physical activity and included a component of motivation or drive were included. The Johns Hopkins Evidence Level and Quality Guide was used to assess the quality of the studies. PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscuss and Google Scholar from 1 January 2018 - 23 August 2024. A total of 20 studies met the inclusion criteria. Three main categories of factors impacting physical activity in low-income adults were identified: (1) motivators for physical activity, (2) barriers for physical activity (3) and items that were both a motivator and a barrier. Despite the key role nurses play in promoting health and wellness, studies conducted by nurses or employing nursing interventions were notably absent. This integrative literature review highlights the need for more information about what motivates low-income adults to be more physically active. Understanding the experience of low-income adults with physical activity is integral to meeting their needs and facilitating increased physical activity. Future research should utilise nursing theories and interventions to improve physical activity levels among low-income adults. This study addressed physical inactivity in low-income adults. More information is needed about motivation for physical activity. This information will impact researchers and clinicians. The search strategy and reporting method were consistent with PRISMA guidelines. No Patient or Public Contribution.

Green Connections: Adaptive, Integrated, and Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Historic Centres

Choosing adaptation and mitigation actions, through nature-based solutions, fosters the ecological transition process, which is necessary to face the challenges of climate change. However, these interventions are often discontinuous and disconnected, especially within dense and delicate urban fabrics such as historic centres. The research proposes a multi-scalar methodological approach aimed at defining an integrated design tool to improve the microclimatic well-being, accessibility and aesthetic quality of open spaces located in consolidated urban environments. Through the synergy between natural, technological and social components, the aim is to create replicable minimum intervention units designed to foster democratic and ecosystemic connections.

An observational study in Roma women in Greece: measuring health factors in an understudied group

Abstract Background The Roma have always been one of the most vulnerable and at the same time understudied minority groups in Europe, living under difficult conditions and experiencing discrimination. The aim of the present work was to summarize the health and lifestyle profile of Roma women living in various regions of Greece. Methods A multi-center, observational study was implemented in April-June 2022, in the context of a national program entitled “Empowering Young Roma Women in matters of health, prevention and human rights: a new methodological approach”. Roma women, living in 5 areas of Greece, and health professionals working with Roma groups were considered as eligible to participate. A two-step, methodological approach was followed: a. qualitative study with Focus Groups and b. questionnaire-based survey. Results In total, n = 41 participants in FGs, and n = 99 responders in survey were recorded. 40% of participants were smokers (>10-15 cigarettes/day). Main quitting reasons, were “to set a good example and cost’. Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods and beverages, low plant-based foods intake, frequent breakfast omission and eating-out were reported by the vast majority of participants. Only 15% of responders had undergone typical, gynecological, screening tests while 1 in 5 responders used contraception. Regarding vaccinations, even if about 8 in 10 women seemed to comply with the obligatory vaccines for their children, a high vaccination reluctancy in 70% of the study sample was recorded in case of vaccination in adulthood. Conclusions This study stands one of the very few that underscore the vulnerability of Roma women in terms of poor health literacy, unhealthy lifestyle behaviours and low motivation to typical preventive measures. Improving access to primary health care services and tailored, culturally sensitive training is crucial. Key messages • Social inclusion of the increasing population of Roma women is crucial. • Health promotion, taking into consideration Roma women’s special needs, shall be a decisive factor of this process.

Empowering Young Roma Women in matters of health and primary care: an innovative training program

Abstract Background Roma communities are rather diverse groups with different level of knowledge, beliefs and motivations in relation to their health. Raising awareness and self-efficacy of these individuals is a challenging field in the EU public health agenda. Objectives To address this challenge, the program entitled “Empowering Young Roma Women in matters of health, prevention and human rights: a new methodological approach” was developed with the aim to empower Roma women in terms of health and prevention topics pilot testing different educational methods. A two-step co-design approach was performed to determine the training content, tools, methods. The training was implemented in 5 areas throughout Greece (Volos, Chalkida, Thiva, Agia Varvara, Zefyri) in Jan-Oct 2023, including 3 phases: a. Train-the-trainers, b. Training the Roma women and c. Training evaluation. Results The educational material developed for health and prevention included 4 units (gynaecological health issues, vaccinations, smoking and nutrition). Each unit consisted of a theoretical background to develop the material, a presentation for future trainers, a presentation for trainees, a brochure, and a poster. For the training a new methodological approach was tested i.e. a health professional or Roma women (after being trained) to deliver the training. In total, 548 pre-post questionnaires were collected. Most trainees, understood the content of the training, acquired new knowledge and found the information interesting and possible to include in their daily life. 80% trainees expressed their satisfaction with the overall presentation. Regarding knowledge improvement based on the type of trainer only a slightly greater degree of improvement was observed for Roma trainers. Conclusions It is crucial to develop culturally appropriate health interventions by directly working with communities, to understand their particular needs, and to ensure they receive the information needed to make informed decisions. Key messages • Maintaining and promoting health is a decisive factor of social inclusion. • Tailor-made training of ethnic minorities shall be an integral part of the EU public health agenda.

Epidemiology of obesity during pregnancy in Europe: a systematic review

Abstract Background Obesity during pregnancy poses inter-generational health risks and places added burden on healthcare systems. Characterising levels of obesity during pregnancy is necessary to guide future research, policy and practice. Methods The systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase and Web of Science were searched. Studies published between 2009 and 2023 that report the prevalence of obesity during pregnancy in countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) European region were eligible. The Joanna Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal tool was used. Two reviewers screened studies independently. A single reviewer completed data extraction and quality assessments, a second checked 20% of extractions and a third resolved disagreements. Narrative synthesis was completed. Results 100 studies reporting the prevalence of obesity during pregnancy in the WHO European region were identified. 59% from Western Europe, 36% Northern, 4% Southern and 1% Eastern. Data within the studies was collected between 1950 and 2019. 35% of studies reported national estimates, 65% regional. 39% studies had measured height and weight, 34% did not report how either were ascertained, 6% used self-report for both, 17% had self-reported height but measured weight, 4% a mixture of self-report and measurement. The smallest sample was 157 while the largest was 1,891,097. Estimated prevalence of obesity during pregnancy ranged from 2.3% (Sweden, data collected 1982-1989) to 28.3% (England, 2007). Conclusions This review identifies variation in the prevalence of obesity during pregnancy in the WHO European region. This may reflect diverse sociocultural contexts, different methodological approaches and temporal trends. There was limited evidence available for Southern and Eastern Europe. Key messages • There are high levels of obesity during pregnancy within the WHO European region. • Enhanced primary prevention and resourcing of obstetric services is needed.

Methodological Approaches to Online Serbian Heritage Language Instruction

In this paper, we propose adequate methodological approaches for Serbian as a heritage language based on the critical analysis of the existing Serbian Ministry of Education’s Curriculum for Serbian as a foreign language. This curriculum is recommended for use in Serbian heritage language education; however, it has been shown to be insufficiently effective in the classroom. The methods in question should benefit heritage speakers the most, such as communication-based methods and form-focused instruction, which enhance metalinguistic awareness. Additionally, we suggest an integrative model of teaching as we believe that cross-cultural approaches positively impact both types of students.

Improving transparency: Development of reporting guidelines for burden of disease studies

Abstract The burden of disease (BOD) approach, originating with the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study in the 1990s, has become a cornerstone for population health monitoring. Despite the widespread use of the Disability-Adjusted Life Year (DALY) metric, variations in methodological approaches and reporting inconsistencies hinder comparability across studies. To tackle this issue, we set out to develop guidelines for reporting DALY calculation studies to improve the transparency and comparability of BOD estimates. The development of the STROBOD statement began within the European Burden of Disease Network, evolving from initial concepts discussed in workshops and training sessions focused on critical analysis of BOD studies. In 2021, a working group was formed to refine the preliminary version into the final Standardised Reporting of Burden of Disease studies (STROBOD) statement, consisting of 28 items structured across six main sections. These sections cover the title, abstract, introduction, methods, results, discussion, and open science, aiming to ensure transparency and standardization in reporting BOD studies. Notably, the methods section of the STROBOD checklist encompasses aspects such as study setting, data inputs and adjustments, DALY calculation methods, uncertainty analyses, and recommendations for reproducibility and transparency. A pilot phase was conducted to test the efficacy of the STROBOD statement, highlighting the importance of providing clear explanations and examples for each reporting item. The inaugural STROBOD statement offers a crucial framework for standardizing reporting in BOD research, with plans for ongoing evaluation and potential revisions based on user feedback. While the current version focuses on general BOD methodology, future iterations may include specialized checklists for distinct applications such as injury or risk factor estimation, reflecting the dynamic nature of this field.

Designing adaptive human-cyber-physical systems to improve industrial tasks: a methodological approach

Designing adaptive human-cyber-physical systems to improve industrial tasks: a methodological approach

Analyzing Public Discourse on the Affordable Care Act through YouTube Comments

Abstract Introduction Social media’s pervasive role in daily life provides a unique avenue for understanding public sentiments. This study utilizes YouTube comments on an MSNBC video about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to explore public opinions on the policy and its political implications. Methods A qualitative analysis of YouTube comments on an MSNBC video was conducted. Netlytic, a scraping tool, gathered 1,949 comments. Thematic analysis, based on a coding framework derived from Semetko and Valkenburg’s frames, identified three predominant frames: Responsibility, Human Interest, and Economic Consequences. Results Of the 1949 comments posted in response to the ACA video on YouTube, 488 were analyzed. Three media frames were used to categorize the comments. Among the analyzed comments, 42% fell within the Responsibility Frame, indicating that 205 comments attributed responsibility for ACA-related issues, healthcare access, and costs to political parties, individual politicians, and government entities. The Human-Interest Frame accounted for 11% of the comments, with 53 remarks reflecting individual experiences related to healthcare access and costs. Additionally, 26% of the comments fell within the Economic Consequences Frame, signifying those 125 comments included remarks concerning the economic impacts of the ACA, such as increased healthcare access, taxes, and penalties. The remaining 21% of comments did not align with the three frames. Conclusions This study embarked on a comprehensive exploration of public discourse surrounding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) within the context of the 2024 presidential election, utilizing YouTube comments as a rich source of qualitative data. Through a meticulous methodological approach, which included thematic framing analysis and intercoder reliability assessments, valuable insights into the diverse perspectives and sentiments expressed by social media users regarding this critical healthcare legislation were gained. Key messages • Social media allows for real-time understanding of people’s thoughts, beliefs, opinions, and ideas, as well as serves as a useful tool that fosters broad, unfiltered data/content. • Researchers conducted a qualitative analysis of public discourse on YouTube to explore the range of sentiments regarding the ACA.

Comparative Historical Analysis in Political Theory

AbstractTwo important methodological debates in political theory concern (i) the place of historical research and interpretation in normative inquiry; and (ii) the importance of comparing different cultural traditions of political thought. The first question animates a long-standing controversy over the relative importance of ‘history of political thought’ versus ‘philosophy’ in political theory, while the second has been central to the recent growth of ‘comparative political theory’. Despite both debates being concerned, in fundamental ways, with history and comparison, they have remained surprisingly disconnected from broader debates in the humanities and social sciences about the use of comparative history and, in particular, of the prominent methodological approach in political science known as ‘comparative historical analysis’. This may reflect the fact that the debates over history of political thought and comparative political theory have fundamentally revolved around thought—history as the history of thought and comparison as the comparison of thought—whereas comparative historical analysis is more centrally focused on the study of political behaviour. In this paper I suggest that this neglect of comparative historical analysis in political theory represents a missed opportunity. Like other forms of social scientific inquiry, comparative historical analysis can yield important empirical knowledge for political theorists. But I wish to more ambitiously suggest that comparative historical analysis can also be adapted for conducting normative political theory itself. I summarise the key features of comparative historical analysis for political theorists, and explain how its use of historical cases can supplement both the use of imaginary thought experiments and the study of contemporary politics. I then delineate three specific ways in which comparative historical analysis might be used to support normative inquiry: deductive testing, inductive construction, and casuistic elaboration. All three, I argue, can help meet recent calls to bring the study of real political behaviour more centrally into political theory research.

2.G. Practice session: Africa and Europe: peer-to-peer HIS assessments for NCD, mental health and injuries surveillance

Abstract Public health surveillance is the basis for evidence-informed decision-making and health (systems) research, globally. Without robust data, public health challenges cannot be tackled. NCDs, mental health conditions and injuries (NCDI/MH) are among the biggest global public health challenges. Their risk and protective factors, including social, political and commercial determinants of health, transcend borders and require multi-disciplinary, multi-stakeholder and long-term responses. Since 2006, comparable national data on NCDI/MH are being collected in Europe on the basis of European Core Health Indicators (ECHI) and the European Health Interview Survey (EHIS). Currently, EU and WHO EURO are working together to set up a new Health Information Network. At EU level, a sustainable health information infrastructure is still lacking, despite extensive preparations in EU-funded projects. Part of these project activities were health information system (HIS) assessments, applying the WHO EURO Support tool to strengthen health information systems for peer-to-peer assessments. In the African region, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), founded in 2017, made NCDI/MH prevention and control a strategic priority. In 2021, it launched its first continental NCDs, Injuries Prevention and Control and Mental Health Promotion Strategy (2022-26) under which the organization supports its Member States. At the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa (Zambia, Nov. 2023), Africa CDC presented a continental Guidance to strengthen NCDI/MH surveillance. The Guidance was developed in collaboration with Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and is based on desk reviews, surveys and national HIS assessments. Both Europe and Africa performed HIS assessments to strengthen NCDI/MH surveillance; standardized tools from WHO EURO and from the International Association of National Public Health Institutes (IANPHI) were used and adapted to fit peer-to-peer approaches and regional contexts. This workshop will present and discuss methodological approaches, experiences and lessons learned, thereby initiating knowledge exchange across continents. The presentations will address the following points: - From top-down to peer-to-peer: methods & tools used in HIS assessments - From paper to practice: the importance of site visits in HIS assessments - From educated guesses to evidence: outcomes of HIS assessments at country level - From evidence to action: translation of HIS assessment outcomes into HIS improvements - From pilot to scale-up: challenges, lessons learned, sustainability of HIS developments To our knowledge, this workshop is the first one at the EPH to bring together practitioners in HIS strengthening for NCDI/MH from Africa and Europe. The workshop offers a unique opportunity to engage with the audience and to explore options for international collaboration. Key messages • Interregional collaboration helps reduce health information inequalities, facilitating better global management of high burden health challenges, such as NCDs, mental health conditions and injuries. • Peer-to-peer HIS assessments in Africa and Europe strengthen NCDI/MH surveillance. They build evidence for policy advice, research and health education and add the benefit of forging expert networks.

SCORE2-ASIA risk prediction algorithms: revised models to estimate 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease in the Asia Pacific Region

Abstract Background Most current cardiovascular disease (CVD) prediction tools have been developed and validated solely in Western countries, while there are significant differences between Asian and Western populations in risk factor distributions and CVD incidence patterns. This study outlines the recalibration and validation of the SCORE2-ASIA model to estimate 10-year fatal and non-fatal CVD risk among adults aged 40-69 years with no previous CVD or diabetes in the Asia Pacific Region. Methods The sex-specific and competing risk-adjusted SCORE2 models were systematically recalibrated to reflect CVD incidence in the Asian clinical practice. We defined four risk regions in Asia according to country-specific CVD mortality rates (low risk (<100 CVD deaths per 100,000), moderate risk (100 to <150 CVD deaths per 100,000), high risk (150 to <300 CVD deaths per 100,000), and very high risk (≥300 CVD deaths per 100,000)). Models were recalibrated using region representative data on expected incidences and risk factor distributions, utilising the methodological approaches developed in recalibration of the SCORE2 models for Europe. The SCORE-ASIA model was externally validated in all risk regions using population-based cohort data from independents cohort data. To ensure the European coefficients well applied to Asian populations, the SCORE2 model derivation process was repeated in external validation cohorts. Results Region-specific incidence was estimated using country-specific data on CVD mortality and data on the ratio of fatal to total events on 9,496,212 individuals from 5 Asian countries (496,212 CVD events). For external validation, we analysed data from 12 additional cohorts in 13 Asian countries (4,775,976 individuals, 176,011 CVD events). After applying the derived risk prediction models to external validation cohorts, the pooled external validation C-index was 0.709 (95%CI 0.676-0.743). In the nationally representative CDMD cohort from Singapore (population completely separate from recalibration data) there was adequate agreement between predicted and observed risks. Risk factor coefficients derived in Asian populations were largely similar to the original SCORE2 coefficients, indicating that the original SCORE2 coefficients apply well to the Asian population. Predicted CVD risk varied several-fold across Asian risk regions. For example, the estimated 10-year CVD risk for a 50-year-old non-smoker, with a systolic blood pressure of 140mmHg, total cholesterol of 5.5mmol/L, and HDL-cholesterol of 1.3mmol/L, ranged from 12% for men in low-risk countries to 26% for men in very-high-risk countries, and from 7% for women in low-risk countries to 26% for women in very-high-risk countries. Conclusions The SCORE2-ASIA model accurately predicts 10-year risk of CVD for apparently healthy people in Asian countries after systematic recalibration, thereby enhancing the identification of individuals at higher risk of developing CVD across the Asia Pacific Region.

Health Impact Assessment (HIA): a tool to drive health in all policies?

Abstract Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is often promoted as a tool to implement ‘health in all policies’ and sustainable development approaches to improve health and equity outcomes. However, is this truly the case? Currently global HIA practice is variable. This paper shares learning from the development and implementation of HIA in Wales to date to understand how HIA has been, and can be, used to inform policies and decisions and reduce health inequalities. The research investigated if, and how, HIA can be used as a tool to mobilise HiAP in reality. It followed a mixed methodological approach and investigated the contribution of HIA to practically advancing HiAP viewed through the lens of Wales and internationally. Primary and secondary evidence and statistics were collected and analysed. A literature review, stakeholder interviews, online statistical questionnaires and case studies were conducted. Thematic and content analysis techniques used. Findings include the importance of conceptual considerations i.e. the perspective on health - social determinant an equity or environmental determinant driven - taken by those carrying out or commissioning a HIA; the importance of centres of expertise to learn from; and practical considerations such as the political and regulatory environment, workforce and organisational knowledge and capacity. Wales has a dedicated expert HIA Unit, an enabling political environment and has led to HIA influencing policies and plans over 20 years. It has transferrable learning for other nations and the research including the online survey has been replicated by others, led to collaborations with nations such as Portugal and contributed to the reviewed literature by providing case studies on a topics like climate change which have influenced decision makers. Tangible ways forward for policy makers, researchers and academics include the need to develop more cross collaboration and fill gaps in the evidence i.e. on institutionalisation of HIA. Key messages • HIA is a excellent process to drive Health in all policies approaches. • HIA needs an enabling environment and workforce support such as that in Wales to thrive.

Navigating the moral maze: a literature review of ethical values in business process management

PurposeBusiness process management (BPM), as a pillar of information systems (IS) research, has become more complex with the advent of new technologies, emphasizing the need for moral and ethical perspectives. To foster moral behavior and responsible action, including ethical values in IT systems and processes can be a solid option. By incorporating a socio-technical perspective, we are able to analyze the various aspects of BPM and organizational processes and the incorporated values. We find an overall acknowledgment of the importance of values and ethics in BPM.Design/methodology/approachThis publication explores ethical values within BPM through a systematic literature review (SLR). The study aims to identify the ethical dimensions inherent in BPM and their practical implications in process management and task execution. The methodological approach adopted is a SLR (Boell and Cecez-Kecmanovic, 2015), adapting the PRISMA guidelines (Page et al., 2021) to identify 82 articles from 21 top IS journals suggested by Lowry et al. (2013).FindingsA descriptive framework is developed to explain the use and application of ethical values within business processes. This framework enables practitioners and researchers to categorize and understand the various ethical considerations involved in BPM. It provides a structured approach highlighting the interrelation between process perspectives and ethical values, demonstrating how different BPM approaches may have varying ethical implications. We compare past and future research in business processes, identifying areas for further investigation and theoretical development. A historical analysis of values and literature also helps contextualize contemporary discussions on ethics in BPM, shedding light on the evolution of ethical considerations within this domain.Originality/valueOur study contributes to a more nuanced understanding of BPM, highlighting the importance of considering ethical values and socio-technical perspectives in designing and implementing business processes. These findings contribute to understanding the values associated with different types of processes and their employment and highlight potential areas for future research. Our study provides ethics-oriented research in IS with novel insights by examining BPM from an ethical value perspective. We contribute to the BPM literature by examining which values are applied in which process types from which perspective. In addition, our research suggestions provide food for thought for both research streams.

Improved visualisation of ACP-engineered osteoblastic spheroids: a comparative study of contrast-enhanced micro-CT and traditional imaging techniques.

This study investigates osteoblastic cell spheroid cultivation methods, exploring flat-bottom, U-bottom, and rotary flask techniques with and without amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP) supplementation to replicate the 3D bone tissue microenvironment. ACP particles derived from eggshell waste exhibit enhanced osteogenic activity in 3D models. However, representative imaging of intricate 3D tissue-engineered constructs poses challenges in conventional imaging techniques due to notable scattering and absorption effects in light microscopy, and hence limited penetration depth. We investigated contrast-enhanced micro-CT as a methodological approach for comprehensive morphological 3D-analysis of the in-vitro model and compared the technique with confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and classical histology. Phosphotungstic acid (PTA) and iodine-based contrast agents were employed for micro-CT imaging in laboratory and synchrotron micro-CT imaging. Results revealed spheroid shape variations and structural integrity influenced by cultivation methods and ACP particles. The study underscores the advantage of 3D spheroid models over traditional 2D cultures in mimicking bone tissue architecture and cellular interactions, emphasising the growing demand for novel imaging techniques to visualise 3D tissue-engineered models. Contrast-enhanced micro-CT emerges as a promising non-invasive imaging method for tissue-engineered constructs containing ACP particles, offering insights into sample morphology, enabling virtual histology before further analysis.

Loneliness in Baltic-Nordic Older Adults Amid COVID-19

Abstract Background The study investigates loneliness among older adults in the Baltic-Nordic region, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. It aims to understand how loneliness varies across cultural and socio-economic contexts in these areas, which is critical for developing public health strategies tailored to the specific needs of older populations. Methods We employed a comprehensive comparative analysis, leveraging data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) and the HL20 study from Iceland, focusing on individuals aged 67 and above. The study encompassed a diverse sample from Sweden, Denmark, Estonia, Lithuania, Finland, Latvia, and Iceland, totaling 5,313 participants. This research is part of a bilateral EEA FM2021/23 initiative to enhance methodological approaches to analyzing older populations by coding and standardizing variables for comparability across different countries. Results Significant regional differences in loneliness were observed. The Baltic regions reported a higher prevalence of loneliness compared to the Nordic countries, which displayed lower levels, attributed to strong social welfare systems and community engagement. Factors such as employment, marital status, and educational attainment varied across regions, affecting loneliness levels. Conclusions The findings highlight the importance of considering regional cultural and social contexts in public health interventions aimed at reducing loneliness among older adults. The study underscores the need for targeted strategies that address the unique social dynamics of the Baltic and Nordic regions. Innovative public health actions, such as community engagement programs and policy development, are recommended to alleviate loneliness in these populations. Key messages • Significant regional differences in loneliness in the Baltic-Nordic region underscore the need for tailored public health interventions. • Employment and social welfare are key factors in mitigating loneliness among older adults, highlighting the importance of socio-economic support systems.